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1
Determine your Needs
Ask Yourself:
- How will you use the RV?
- Occasional weekend trips?
- Full-time living?
- Family vacations?
- How many people need to sleep in it?
- Do you need space for pets, gear, or hobbies (e.g., bikes, kayaks)?
- Preferred destinations?
- Campgrounds with hookups vs. boondocking/off-grid
- How will you use the RV?
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2
Understand RV Types
Motorized RVs
- Fuel: Most types have a Diesel or Gas Variant
- Class A Gas: Large bus-style, up to 38ft, Limited luxury features, more affordable price point, sleeps many
- Class A Diesel: Large bus-style, luxury features, sleeps many, higher price point, higher towing and cargo carrying ability, sleeps many
- Class B (Campervans): Small, agile and easy to drive, good fuel economy
- Class C: Mid-size, over-cab sleeping, often a good balance, entry level or luxury price points available
- Super C: A Class C with better towing, more power, more Luxury Features
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3
Set a RV Budget
Include:
- RV cost: Up to 20 year financing
- Insurance: Very inexpensive, if you're not full timing
- Taxes and Registration
- KEEP IN MIND Most dealers charge an additional $2,500 to $8,000 in added fees. MHSRV.com is honest and up front with all pricing, meaning we don't charge those fees.
- Some dealers will throw in fees after you agree on a price to get you to pay more. Get the out the door price up front to save your Money
New vs. Used:
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4
Research Before You Buy
If Buying New:
- Research Brands and Models
- Read and compare features
- Check Manufacturer warranty and Dealer Extended Service Contract (BC provides 1 year RV Complete for Free with any New RV Purchase)
- Check dealer network availability (Blue Compass has over 100 facilities to service you nationwide)
If Buying Used:
- Look for:
- Water damage (roof, walls, floor)
- Tire age (not just tread!)
- Functionality of appliances, slides, and systems
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5
Consider Practical Features
- Slide-outs: Expands living space
- Tanks: Size of fresh/grey/black water tanks
- Solar or generator: For off-grid camping
- Heating/cooling: Essential for full-time or all-season use, multiple A/C options for Warmer Climates
- Storage: Interior cabinets and exterior bays
- Towing: How much towing capacity is needed
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6
Close the Deal Smartly
- Negotiate the price on new, if the motor home isnt at least 25% off MSRP (the MINIMUM discount at MHSRV)
- Ask for extras (starter kits, warranties, maintenance plans)
- Review the sales contract carefully
- If financing: compare loan rates and terms (Dealer has access to a wide range of financing options and might give a discount if you finance with them)
- Register the RV and get insured before hitting the road
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B
Bonus Tips for First-Time RV Owners
- Learn how to dump tanks, level the RV, and manage power (MHSRV gives you a free and Orientation with a certified technician with any new RV purchase and we don’t charge any hidden fees for it)
- Ask about on site camping (MHSRV recommends and prefers you stay the first night at our on site camp grounds incase you remember questions after a good nights sleep in your new RV **FREE**)
- Download camping apps (RV Complete, Campendium, RV Life, iOverlander)
- Ask for dealer specific extras (Free night, Free Orientation, Complimentary 200-Point inspection, fully automated high-pressure rain booth test, on site parts and accessory store, all available at Motor Home Specialist)